The Queen’s Baton, which is touring the globe ahead of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, paid a visit to the offices of SMP Partners in Douglas during its stop in the Isle of Man.
SMP Partners is supporting the Manx effort at the XXth Commonwealth Games, taking place in Glasgow from 23rd July to 3rd August, as a Team Isle of Man Champion. The company is a long-standing supporter of sport on the Island and they were honoured to host the Baton.
SMP Partners Managing Director Mark Denton said: ‘It was a thrilling day at the office, being able to hold this symbol of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and a wonderful opportunity for everyone at SMP Partners to share in the excitement of the build-up to the Games. I’d like to thank the relay team and the Isle of Man Commonwealth Games Association for arranging the visit.’
The Baton spent three days in the Island as part of the relay which will see it visit 70 countries over 248 days in a journey covering more than 100,000 miles. The relay began last October when Her Majesty The Queen placed a message to the Commonwealth into the baton at Buckingham Palace. The relay concludes in Scotland just in time for the Opening Ceremony, where The Queen will read aloud her message.
SMP Partners is a strong supporter of sport on the Island, most recently with the two-year Isle of Man Sporting Excellence Programme, which was designed to support local sports performers and coaches prepare for major events, including the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
The programme, jointly sponsored by SMP Partners, Microgaming and Creechurch Capital, was led by double Olympic gold medal winner Dame Kelly Holmes and saw a host of leading trainers and athletes attend specially-organised Talent Days covering everything from training and nutrition to media interaction and psychological preparation.
Mr Denton added: ‘The Isle of Man is sending one of its strongest-ever teams to the Commonwealth Games this year, and I hope the Sporting Excellence Programme and support from local organisations through the Team Isle of Man Champions initiative assist them in achieving their potential and bringing back as many medals as possible.
‘Having been fortunate enough to spend time with many of the athletes and coaches who will be heading to Glasgow in July at the Sporting Excellence Programme Talent Days, I know just how committed and determined they are. There is no lack of ambition, and no lack of talent, and I know they will do us proud.
‘I have been lucky enough to secure tickets to attend the Games and am very much looking forward to cheering on the Isle of Man Team.’
He concluded: ‘The visit of the Queen’s Baton to our office has really brought the Commonwealth Games spirit and excitement to everyone here at SMP Partners.’
Photo - SMP Partners Chairman Steve McGowan and SMP Partners Managing Director Mark Denton with the Queen’s Baton.
